Former Leeds Rhinos head coach and USA boss Brian McDermott has been confirmed as new coach of Toronto Wolfpack.

The four-time Super League Grand Final winner takes over from Paul Rowley following confirmation of his widely expected departure on Saturday. Rowley left by mutual consent after missing out on promotion to the top flight following a defeat to London Broncos in the Million Pound Game.

The move sees McDermott back in club rugby having been sacked last season by the Rhinos, with the task laid out to him of taking the Wolfpack to Super League at the end of next season.

Wolfpack director of rugby Brian Noble said: “We are delighted to bring in a head coach of Brian's calibre, who we believe can lead us to the Super League.

“Brian is a world class coach and we are extremely excited that he has come on board with the Wolfpack. His track record in the game speaks for itself and having known Brian for many years, I know he has all the right attributes to take the club forward.”

Toronto Wolfpack's Josh McCrone in action against London Broncos in the Million Pound Game. (Image: SWpix)

McDermott is excited by the appointment and says Toronto could be a game changer for rugby league.

He said: “After being at the Rhinos for so long, I always knew I couldn't just roll into any other club so easily.

"Toronto Wolfpack offers a challenge and ambition that not many other clubs have, already demonstrating this with how they've gone about getting to this stage.

"I'm excited on being a part of something that could genuinely be a game changer for rugby league in the UK."